Every year, Diwali marks a time to pause, reflect, and reconnect, not just with family, but with yourself. For many travelers, it’s also a chance to take that long-overdue break and explore somewhere new. Whether you’re drawn to temples glowing along the Ganges or the calm of a tropical beach, this is the perfect time to discover Diwali travel destinations that bring warmth and renewal.
With smart tools, flexible planning, and the right timing, your dream Diwali getaway doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag.
When Is Diwali 2025 and Why It’s the Perfect Time to Travel
In 2025, Diwali falls on October 21, making it an ideal time for exploration. The summer rush has eased, shoulder-season discounts are still available, and the year-end holidays haven’t begun yet.
It’s also one of the best opportunities to visit Diwali holiday destinations, from Indian cities lighting up in celebration to international spots where South Asian communities bring the festival to life. If you start tracking fares early, festive travel in 2025 can be surprisingly affordable.
Top 10 Diwali Getaway Destinations for 2025
Here’s a mix of places that capture Diwali’s spirit in different ways, from traditional celebrations in India to international cities that glow just as brightly.
1. Jaipur, India
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Jaipur comes alive during Diwali, when its pink-hued streets and grand palaces glimmer under millions of lights. The Hawa Mahal and City Palace become radiant backdrops for fireworks, while the markets buzz with music and sweets. This combination of royal heritage and vibrant community energy makes Jaipur one of the most magical Diwali holiday destinations, offering travelers both spectacle and heart.
Flight tip: Fly into Delhi, then take a short local flight or scenic train ride to Jaipur to save money and explore more of northern India.
2. Varanasi, India
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Diwali in Varanasi features thousands of diyas floating across the Ganges, reflecting the city’s deep spiritual connection to light and renewal. The chants, incense, and river rituals create an atmosphere that feels timeless and transformative. For travelers seeking a soul-stirring experience rather than a sightseeing trip, Varanasi embodies the heart of Diwali’s meaning.
Flight tip: Fly into Delhi or Lucknow and take a connecting flight or overnight train for a more affordable and immersive journey.
3. Bali, Indonesia
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Bali’s Hindu roots make it a natural fit for celebrating Diwali with serenity and meaning. The island’s temples glow with lanterns, locals mark the season with quiet prayers, and travelers are invited to join moments of reflection. Between surf breaks, temple visits, and golden sunsets, Diwali in Bali feels like a spiritual reset — the kind that replaces noise with calm and reconnects you to what matters.
Flight tip: Look for multi-city routes via Manila or Singapore, which are often cheaper compared to a direct route.
4. Dubai, UAE
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Dubai doesn’t do anything halfway, and Diwali is no exception. The city’s skyline dazzles with fireworks, malls host elaborate light shows, and fine-dining restaurants offer special menus celebrating Indian flavors. Beneath the luxury, the warmth of the city’s Indian community shines through, making Dubai one of the most dynamic Diwali travel destinations for travelers who crave both comfort and culture.
Flight tip: Compare Emirates’ direct flights with multi-stop options on Qatar Airways or Etihad; savings can be significant.
5. Singapore
Photo by Jeyakumaran Mayooresan on Unsplash
In Singapore, Diwali, also known as Deepavali, transforms Little India into a festival of lights, with streets lined with glowing archways, garlands, and lanterns. Families celebrate openly, sharing sweets and stories with visitors. The city’s organized, easy-to-navigate atmosphere makes it ideal for families or first-time travelers who want cultural immersion without chaos. Singapore proves that Diwali’s joy transcends geography.
Flight tip: Midweek departures and early bookings often yield the best cheap flights to Singapore.
6. Goa, India
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Goa puts a coastal twist on Diwali, with beach fireworks, colorful Narkasur effigies, and all-night community celebrations. By day, travelers can unwind by the sea; by night, they’re part of lively local traditions that turn small villages into glowing spectacles. Goa is perfect for those who want celebration and relaxation rolled into one, where Diwali feels more like a shared experience than a tourist event.
Flight tip: Fly into Mumbai and out of Goa to save on airfare and explore more of western India.
7. Bangkok, Thailand
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Bangkok’s Diwali celebrations reflect its role as a global crossroads. The city’s temples shimmer with candles, the Indian community hosts cultural performances, and lanterns float along the Chao Phraya River. It’s a beautiful mix of Thai hospitality and Indian tradition, offering travelers an approachable introduction to Asia’s festive side. The city’s food, warmth, and accessibility make it one of the best-value Diwali travel destinations for 2025.
Flight tip: Keep an eye on fare trackers. Bangkok remains one of the most affordable options for Diwali trips from the U.S.
8. London, UK
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London’s Diwali celebrations are legendary, transforming Trafalgar Square into a lively open-air festival filled with music, dancing, and street food. The city’s deep South Asian roots mean the energy feels authentic and more like a homecoming than a holiday. Whether you’re exploring temples in Wembley or dining in Soho, London offers a global Diwali that celebrates unity through light.
Flight tip: Routes via Dublin or Brussels often reduce UK airport taxes and reveal cheap flight deals from the East Coast.
9. San Francisco, USA
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For those staying stateside, San Francisco delivers one of America’s most vibrant Diwali scenes. From Fremont’s massive cultural fairs to Diwali at the Square downtown, the Bay Area celebrates with warmth, inclusivity, and creativity. You’ll find the same lights, flavors, and community spirit that define the festival in India without the long-haul flight.
Flight tip: Domestic fares often drop in early October, so last-minute deals are possible for West Coast travelers.
10. Toronto, Canada
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Toronto brings Diwali to life with a vibrancy that rivals celebrations back in India. The Gerrard India Bazaar, home to one of North America’s largest Diwali festivals, glows with lights, food stalls, and live music that fill the crisp autumn air. Across the city, temples, neighborhoods, and even landmarks like the CN Tower join in the festivities, turning Toronto into a citywide celebration of light. Beyond the festival, the mix of world-class dining, multicultural neighborhoods, and a welcoming community makes it an easy and enriching getaway for the season.
Flight tip: Short-haul routes from major U.S. cities often have cheap flight deals, making Toronto one of the most accessible Diwali travel destinations for 2025.
How to Get the Cheapest Flights for Diwali 2025
Even during busy travel periods, it’s possible to find cheap flights to India or anywhere else you want to go. Here’s how:
- Track early: Start monitoring fares six to eight weeks before departure.
- Use smart tech: AI-powered fare trackers like OneAir can automatically rebook you if prices drop — no effort required.
- Stay flexible: Midweek departures and alternative airports can make a significant difference.
- Watch for fall sales: Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines often launch short-term promotions in early fall.
- Avoid the busiest departure days: October 18 to 20
Even during peak season, a little preparation goes a long way. Learning how to get the cheapest flights isn’t about luck, but more to do with timing and tools that make travel smarter.
Takeaway
Diwali is more than just lamps or fireworks; it’s about finding brightness in new places. Whether you’re exploring Diwali holiday destinations abroad or celebrating closer to home, travel can make the festival’s message of renewal feel even more meaningful.
If you want to make your festive travel in 2025 effortless and affordable, sign up for OneAir. Our AI-powered platform continuously monitors your flights and hotels for price drops and automatically rebooks when fares fall, so you always get the best deal without lifting a finger. Celebrate smarter, travel brighter, and let OneAir help you save big this Diwali season.
*Banner photo by Harshit from harshit chaudhry’s Images
